Sam Riley
ActingLeeds, West Yorkshire, England, UK He is best known for playing the lead role of Ian Curtis in the movie Control, a biopic about the lead singer of the 1970s post-punk band Joy Division. His performance in the role won him the British Independent Film Award for "Most Promising Newcomer". He also won a Kermode for Best Actor 2007 for the film. Prior to his portrayal of Ian Curtis, Riley played The Fall frontman Mark E. Smith in the Michael Winterbottom film 24 Hour Party People, which details the Factory Records era. His scenes, however, were omitted from the final cut. In September 2007, Riley was cast in Gerald McMorrow's British science fiction film Franklyn. He will play a lead role in 13, an English-language remake of the French thriller 13 Tzameti. He is currently playing the role of Pinkie Brown in a remake of Brighton Rock alongside Helen Mirren.
Lewis Gribben
ActingGlasgow, Scotland, UK
Ben Coyle-Larner
ActingBen Coyle-Larner (also known as Loyle Carner) is a British musician, model and actor from London. He is best known for his work as the rapper and songwriter Loyle Carner, whose albums and live performances have received widespread critical acclaim.He began acting as a child, appearing in 10,000 BC (2008), and later studied drama before focusing on music full-time. Alongside his music career, he has worked in fashion and modelling, including international brand campaigns.In 2026, he appears as Arran in the BBC crime drama series Mint, which is scheduled to be screened at the Berlin International Film Festival.
Lauren Lapkus
ActingEvanston, Illinois, USALauren Lapkus emerged as a refreshing talent in the world of comedy and acting, captivating audiences with her unique blend of wit and warmth. Born as Dorthea Lauren Allegra Lapkus, she honed her craft in the vibrant comedy scene of Chicago. Her early days included performing at renowned venues such as The Second City and iO Theater, where she quickly made a name for herself as a skilled improviser.
Her breakthrough role came with the character of Susan Fischer in the acclaimed Netflix series Orange Is the New Black, where her portrayal of the quirky prison guard left a lasting impression. This role not only showcased her comedic timing but also her ability to navigate the more nuanced emotional aspects of her character. The series, praised for its authentic storytelling and diverse representation, allowed Lapkus to reach a broader audience and solidified her status as a rising star.
In addition to her memorable turn in Orange Is the New Black, Lapkus has made a mark on various other television shows. She appeared in Are You There, Chelsea? and Hot in Cleveland, both of which demonstrated her versatility as an actress. Her role as Jess in HBO's Crashing further established her as a significant presence in the comedy-drama genre, earning her critical acclaim and recognition from fans alike.
Lapkus's film career also began to flourish with her performance in Jurassic World, where she played a park technician in the blockbuster franchise. This role not only showcased her comedic chops but also her ability to hold her own alongside an ensemble cast of seasoned actors. She continued to shine in films like The Unicorn and The Wrong Missy, both of which highlighted her comedic range and ability to engage with various genres.
Her voice acting skills have not gone unnoticed either. Lapkus lent her voice to Lotta in the animated series Harvey Girls Forever!, demonstrating her versatility beyond live-action roles. This experience added another layer to her already diverse portfolio, showcasing her ability to bring characters to life through voice alone.
Apart from her on-screen work, Lapkus has built a presence in the podcasting world. Her own podcast, With Special Guest Lauren Lapkus, allows her to explore conversations with fellow comedians and actors, revealing her genuine curiosity and engaging personality. Her appearances on popular podcasts like Comedy Bang! Bang! and improv4humans have further endeared her to audiences, allowing them to see her improvisational skills in a different light.
Throughout her career, Lapkus has received accolades and recognition for her work, including nominations for various awards in comedy and acting. Her contributions to television and film have paved the way for aspiring comedians and actors, proving that a unique voice and perspective can resonate with audiences and inspire future generations.
Lauren Lapkus continues to be a vibrant force in the entertainment industry, with her blend of comedy and heart making her performances memorable. With each new project, she expands her range and influences the comedy landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and its audiences.
Insomniacs Trivia
- Lapkus was a member of the popular improv group 'The Second City' in Chicago before moving to Los Angeles.
- She has a background in performing stand-up comedy, adding to her skills as an actress.
- Lapkus is known for her quirky and improvisational style, which often brings a fresh perspective to her roles.
- In addition to acting, she has written for several comedy shows, showcasing her talent behind the scenes.
- Her podcast has featured a wide range of guests, from comedians to actors, reflecting her diverse network in the entertainment industry.
Insomniacs Take
Lauren Lapkus has carved out a delightful niche for herself in the industry, combining her improvisational roots with a flair for character-driven performances. Her ability to oscillate between comedy and drama makes her a versatile talent, and her projects showcase a refreshing honesty that resonates with audiences. With each role, she continues to challenge herself, proving that she is more than just a comedic actress; she is a storyteller who connects with viewers on multiple levels.
Nick Swardson
ActingMinneapolis, Minnesota, USANicholas "Nick" Swardson (born October 9, 1976) is an American actor, stand-up comedian, and writer. He is best known for his recurring role as Terry Bernardino in the Comedy Central series Reno 911!, for his work in Happy Madison movies, and for his new Comedy Central television series Nick Swardson's Pretend Time.Description above from the Wikipedia article Nick Swardson, licensed under CC-BY-SA, full list of contributors on Wikipedia.